Museums are entities that handle valuable works of art, some even of incalculable value. For this reason, security is one of the most important issues for this type of business, always seeking maximum security and control over everything that happens in their facilities and surroundings. Having the best museums security system should be a priority, as this guarantees the protection of the works of art, visitors and the workers themselves who carry out different functions (guards, guides, cleaning and maintenance staff, etc.).
Why security in museums is important
There are many risks and threats that a museum faces and that put its business model at risk. Let’s see why it is crucial to have a modern and efficient security and protection system:
Theft
Museums are one of the main targets of thieves because of the items of special interest and value they house. In addition, these types of businesses are victims of theft and burglary by sophisticated criminals using modern techniques and technologies.
Vandalism
Many groups use museums to publicise their demands, and vandalise them by throwing paint on works of art or by gluing their hands or chaining themselves to them.
Such actions pose serious risks to the museum’s assets, as well as projecting a bad image of the museum in the public eye.
Natural phenomena
Given the type of items and objects contained in a museum, disasters caused by climatic processes, such as floods, torrential rains or earthquakes, can cause great damage.
Museums are also exposed to other risks, such as fires caused by electrical hazards or carelessness on the part of workers or visitors.
Cyber-attacks
In today’s digital environment, museums are adapting to new technologies by using social networks, digital tours, online ticketing, etc.
Cyber-attacks are becoming a problem for this type of business, including the use of fake news that attacks their reputation.
What are the ideal security system measures for museums
In order for a museum to have the best protection and security system for its assets, staff and visitors, it is important to take into account a number of essential aspects:
Customised protection systems
Since museums can house a wide variety of objects and works, such as paintings, sculptures, historical objects, textiles, etc., it is key to implement protection systems for each of these objects that are adapted to their particular characteristics.
For example, by creating specially designed protective display cases for each object, allowing them to be displayed without reducing the visitor’s experience, while maximising their security.
Commitment to new technologies
Advances in technology make it possible to significantly improve a museum’s security measures. For example, with artificial intelligence in security cameras, it is possible to identify people, vehicles and objects in real time, which is an important step forward for museums in terms of protection and access control.
In addition, AI is very useful to be able to identify between false alarms, and those that really pose a threat to the museum (e.g. identifying if a break-in alarm has been triggered by a small rodent).
Implementing a perimeter security system
In a museum, it is not only high-value items that are on display, as many valuable works are stored in the storerooms and await their time to be exhibited to the public.
To protect all areas of the museum, it is important to have an alarm verification service specialised in perimeter protection systems, so that they can control their entire environment, preventing unauthorised access to these critical areas.
Having good access control
Automated access control systems are the ideal response to the transit of people in the museum. This type of programme keeps a real-time record of the people who are inside the museum at any given moment, as well as facilitating access and exit for those who have the appropriate authorisation.
Interconnected alarm systems
Nowadays, it is essential for museums to have an integrated alarm system that is directly interconnected with the police, as this significantly reduces response times and increases the possibility of resolving any incident quickly and correctly.
Face-to-face surveillance
The human factor is still crucial in the protection and control of a type of business such as a museum. Today, guards and security personnel have a wide variety of tools and technologies at their disposal that allow them to be even more efficient in their day-to-day duties.
Other measures
Let’s look at other measures that are interesting to protect the assets of a museum:
- Backup systems to protect all the information they handle.
- Fire protection systems.
- Adequate lighting systems.
- Closed-circuit TV systems (CCTV).
- We have talked about the great importance of security in museums and what
- protection measures are ideal for this type of environment.
At Microsegur we are leaders in advanced perimeter security systems engineering for companies. We offer you our installation, integration and maintenance services for your company’s security and communications system. Do not hesitate and contact us to receive advice tailored to your real needs.
